Academic Catalog

Transcription

1 For Christ and His Church Academic Catalog

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3 TABLE OF CONTENTS From the President... 1 About Erskine... 2 Mission... 2 Commitments... 2 History... 4 Denominational Relationships... 5 Degree Programs... 5 Locations... 6 Accreditation... 7 State Authorization... 8 Relationships with Other Educational Institutions... 8 Admissions... 9 Applying to Erskine... 9 International Students Transfer Credit Degree Programs Master of Divinity (MDiv) Master of Divinity (MDiv)Chaplain Ministries Master of Arts in Practical Ministry (MAPM) Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) Master of Theology (ThM) Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Academics Academic Advising Registration Instructional Policies Grading Academic Status Graduation Course Descriptions Bible Department Courses Theology Department Courses Ministry Department Courses MATS Courses Master of Theology (ThM) Courses Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Courses... 68

4 Table of Contents Finances Financial Aid Student Information Community Life Statement Academic Conduct Other Institutional Policies Students Right to Privacy Ministry Opportunities Campus Services and Facilities (Due West) People Faculty Administration Board of Trustees Whom to Contact Emergency Contacts Academic Calendar Index Certification Statement Appendix

5 From the President As the President of Erskine College and Theological Seminary, it is my great privilege to introduce you to a seminary which has educated pastors and scholars in the Reformed tradition for 180 years. Set on a beautiful campus in Due West, South Carolina, Erskine Theological Seminary provides the opportunity to study with professors committed to the nurture of both the mind and the heart as they prepare students for ministries in the church, on the mission field, and in academia. With a bent toward the development of pastors, seminary faculty share wisdom honed through extensive experience in church ministry. The Seminary s small classes and challenging yet nurturing environment provide an ideal setting to prepare for your calling. Although the Seminary s main campus is located in Due West, other satellite locations include a degree-granting campus in Columbia, SC, and extension sites in Greenville, SC, Charleston, SC, and Augusta, GA. These multiple satellites augmented by online curricula allow the Seminary to afford its students both the flexibility and convenience of obtaining excellent training in today s fast-paced world. The Seminary offers the M.A.T.S., M.A.P.M, M.Div., Th.M., and D.Min. degrees with a variety of procedural options. My hope is that your time at Erskine Theological Seminary will be filled with academic challenge, spiritual nurture, and practical preparation for your future ministry. It is our desire to be a Christian community of scholars who exalt Christ and His cross in all aspects of our daily work. My prayer is that your studies will engender personal and spiritual flourishing in a historic institution committed to a Biblical and Reformed perspective. May God s richest blessings be yours as you embark on your seminary journey. Sincerely in Christ, Dr. Robert E. Gustafson President Jude 24-25: Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen Erskine Theological Seminary Catalog

6 ABOUT ERSKINE MISSION INSTITUTIONAL MISSION Erskine College exists to glorify God as a Christian academic community where students are equipped to flourish as whole persons for lives of service through the pursuit of undergraduate liberal arts and graduate theological education. ERSKINE COLLEGE (UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS) The mission of Erskine College is to equip students to flourish by providing an excellent liberal arts education in a Christ-centered environment where learning and Biblical truth are integrated to develop the whole person. ERSKINE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY Erskine Theological Seminary supports the Mission of God in the world by educating, from a Biblically Reformed perspective, persons for service in the Christian Church (Matthew 28:16-20). COMMITMENTS Erskine Theological Seminary Seeks to Glorify God. We are committed to honoring God in everything we do. We believe that our highest calling is to glorify and enjoy the God who made us. We believe that the only proper response to the grace of Christ is to love, trust, and obey him. And we seek, by the power of his Holy Spirit, to serve him and his Church. Erskine Theological Seminary Is Biblical. We are committed to the authority of the Bible, the historic Christian faith, and the gospel of Jesus Christ. As an agency of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, the Seminary affirms with the ARP Church that the Bible alone, being God-breathed, is the Word of God Written, infallible in all that it teaches, and inerrant in the original manuscripts. The Scriptures are the standard by which we evaluate faith, life, and ministry. Erskine Theological Seminary Is Evangelical. We are committed to the essential doctrines taught in the Bible and repeated in the great creeds and confessions of the Church throughout its history. In particular, we are committed to the gospel of salvation by God s grace alone, based entirely upon the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. We seek to keep this message of God s grace at the heart of our teaching and to experience its reality in our lives and ministries. (See the ARP Church s definition of Evangelical Christian below.) Erskine Theological Seminary Catalog

7 Admissions 3 Erskine Theological Seminary Is Reformed. We are committed to the Reformed tradition and especially to the doctrinal standards of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, as set forth in the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms. We believe that this tradition best captures the teaching of the Scriptures. Yet we recognize that we did not come to this conviction by our own wisdom or insight, but by God s grace, and so we deal humbly, graciously, and respectfully with those who understand the Scriptures differently. We also recognize that we must continue to deepen our understanding of the Scriptures and to apply the insights of the Reformed tradition faithfully and thoughtfully to issues of faith, life, and ministry in a changing world. Erskine Theological Seminary Is Missional. We are committed to serve as a resource for the entire Christian Church to prepare students for service from a variety of denominations and backgrounds to accomplish the Mission of God in the world. Erskine Theological Seminary Serves the Whole Church. We are committed to serving the whole Church of Jesus Christ. Our Reformed tradition teaches that there is only one holy, universal, and apostolic Church, to which all who confess Christ belong and whom we are bound to love and serve. It teaches us that the things that unite us with other Christians matter more than the things about which we differ. We therefore view the Reformed faith as a treasure to share with the wider church, not a cause for isolation. We find that diverse perspectives in our community enrich learning and prepare students to work respectfully alongside others in ministry. And so, while our first priority is serving the ARP Church and similar Reformed churches, we gladly open our doors to students from many denominations, and through academic programs, special events, and the varied ministries of our faculty, staff, and students, Erskine serves the whole Church of Jesus Christ. Erskine Theological Seminary Prepares Students for Ministry. We are committed to preparing students for ministry. Because we are committed to the Church, our primary focus is on preparing men and women to serve in Christ s Church. We provide rigorous academic instruction in the Bible, theology, church history, and the practice of ministry, always seeking to apply these to the needs of the Church and its ministry. We also seek to develop students spiritual and personal maturity, clarity about their gifts and calling, and the skills and dispositions required for effective ministry. The measure of our ministry is the faithfulness and fruitfulness of theirs. DEFINITION OF EVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN In 2008, the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church adopted the following definition of the beliefs that constitute Evangelical Christian faith. All faculty members and director-level staff members (hired since 2008) subscribe to this statement: The word evangelical comes from a Greek root meaning good news, and it refers to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In a broad sense, evangelicals are people who believe that the Bible is

8 Admissions 4 God s inspired Word and that an individual can become a Christian only by accepting Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. Evangelicals believe: 1. The Bible alone, being God-breathed, is the Word of God Written, infallible in all that it teaches, and inerrant in the original manuscripts. 2. That there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 3. In the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, in his Virgin Birth, in his sinless life, in his miracles, in his vicarious and atoning death through the shed blood, in his bodily resurrection, in his ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in his personal return in power and glory. 4. That for the salvation of lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential. 5. In the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life. 6. In the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; that they that are saved unto the resurrection of life and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation. 7. In the spiritual unity of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. HISTORY Erskine Seminary was founded in 1837 by the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Synod of the South. Presbyterians have historically believed that educated ministers are essential for healthy churches and the Seminary was founded to meet this critical need. Two years later, the faculty was enlarged to establish the first four-year denominational college in South Carolina, with the Seminary operating as an arm of the College. The two institutions were formally separated in 1859, but were reunited in 1926 under the name Erskine College, with the Seminary as serving as a professional school alongside the undergraduate Christian liberal arts institution. The Seminary s name honors the heritage of the brothers Ralph and Ebenezer Erskine, who served as pastors and leaders in the Presbyterian church in Scotland in the early 1700s. The Erskines are particularly remembered for two courageous stands. When some claimed that people must repent of their sins (and clean up their lives) before they could come to Christ, the Erskines insisted that God in his grace invites people to come to Christ as they are, as sinners, to receive forgiveness ( the Marrow controversy ). When wealthy landowners claimed the right to name pastors of churches built on their land ( patronage ), the Erskines insisted that Christ, the Lord of the Church, had given that right to the people in the church. For these stands (for God s grace and the authority of Christ), the Erskines (with others) were rebuked by the church and suspended from the ministry. They then seceded to form an Associate Presbytery (one of the predecessors of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church) and continued to proclaim God s free grace. Erskine has sought to share its heritage and resources with the wider church. The Seminary first began offering courses outside of Due West in Following the provision of the expanded facilities of Bowie Divinity Hall in 1985, the Board of Trustees approved the expansion of the Seminary s mission to serve the larger evangelical community and the Seminary adopted a block schedule (each class meets only one day each week for three hours) to accommodate commuting

9 Admissions 5 students. Since that time, students from many other churches Presbyterian, Baptist, AME, Methodist, Pentecostal, and non-denominational have joined students from the ARP Church to receive training for ministry. In the 1990s, the Seminary launched its distance education program and in 2010 was approved to offer complete degree programs at its Columbia campus. Without wavering from its Evangelical and Reformed commitments, the Seminary continues to seek additional ways to serve the whole Church of Jesus Christ. DENOMINATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS Erskine Theological Seminary was originally founded by the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church (ARPC) to train ministers for that denomination. The Seminary is still governed by a Board of Trustees elected by the ARPC, is committed to the doctrinal standards of the ARPC, and continues to supply many of the ARPC s ministers. At the same time, the Seminary s commitment to serve the whole Church means that we welcome students each year from many denominations, such as the Presbyterian Church in America, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Southern Baptist Convention, the National Baptist Convention, and many other mainline, Pentecostal, independent, and non-denominational churches. DEGREE PROGRAMS LEARNING OUTCOMES Erskine seeks, in dependence on the grace of God, to educate men and women for service in the Christian Church by developing the following knowledge, skills, and characteristics. 1. Concepts. Graduates will interpret the Bible and draw on the Church s theological and historical heritage as they apply the Bible s message to faith, life, and ministry in contemporary contexts. 2. Competence. Graduates will serve the Church effectively using skills required for their particular callings, especially communication, caring for others, leadership, and administration. 3. Calling. Graduates will identify, develop, and use their abilities to advance the Church s mission to worship and serve Jesus Christ. 4. Character. Graduates will serve the Church with evident Christian character and integrity in their personal and professional lives. MASTER OF DIVINITY (MDIV) The MDiv is the professional degree that traditionally prepares graduates to serve in ordained ministry and is required by many denominations. The MDiv provides a balanced curriculum with courses in biblical studies, theology and church history, and the practice of ministry. The program requires hours and can be completed in as little as three years of full-time study. MASTER OF ARTS IN PRACTICAL MINISTRY (MAPM) The MAPM prepares graduates for specialized roles in churches or other ministries. Students ordained in denominations that do not require the MDiv often use the MAPM to enhance their

10 Admissions 6 knowledge and ministry skills. The curriculum focuses on courses in the practice of ministry. The program requires 48 hours and can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study. MASTER OF ARTS IN THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (MATS) The MATS deepens graduates understanding of the Bible, theology, and church history. Students pursue the MATS for personal enrichment, to enhance their ministries as leaders and teachers in their churches, or to prepare for further study. The program requires 48 hours and can be completed entirely online or online/in-residence. Students who have a relevant undergraduate degree in biblical or theological studies may be eligible to complete the degree in one academic year of study. MASTER OF THEOLOGY (THM) The ThM provides MDiv and MATS graduates the opportunity to pursue research in biblical and theological studies that will enhance their ministries and/or provide a foundation for PhD studies. The program requires 24 hours and can be completed in as little as two years of part-time study. DOCTOR OF MINISTRY (DMIN) The DMin provides pastors and other ministry leaders the opportunity for advanced theological reflection on the work of ministry and to sharpen ministry skills. The MDiv (or its educational equivalent) and experience in ministry are required. The program requires 36 hours and can be completed in as little as three years of part-time study. CERTIFICATE AND DIPLOMA PROGRAMS Students who lack an undergraduate degree may earn a diploma or certificate by completing one of the Seminary s corresponding master s degree curricula: Diploma in Theology (=MDiv), Certificate in Practical Ministry (=MAPM), or Certificate in Theological Studies (=MATS). LOCATIONS Since 1980, Erskine has sought to make theological education accessible to students in and around South Carolina, offering complete degrees at its campuses in Due West and Columbia, and courses at a number of extension sites and online (see below for details). During the fall and spring semesters, most courses meet once a week for three hours, although a few meet for five or six day-long sessions (often on Saturdays), especially at extension sites. During the January and summer terms, classes typically meet in five or six day-long sessions (as week-long intensives or on other selected days). Schedules for upcoming classes are available on the Seminary s website. DUE WEST CAMPUS Students may pursue any of the Seminary s degrees at its historic campus in Due West, South Carolina: Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Arts in Practical Ministry (MAPM), Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS), Master of Theology (ThM), and Doctor of Ministry (DMin). The Due

11 Admissions 7 West campus offers amenities that include the McCain Library, on-site housing (full-time or overnight for single students, overnight for couples and guests), food service, and athletic facilities. COLUMBIA CAMPUS Students may pursue the MDiv, MAPM, MATS, and DMin degrees at the Seminary s campus in downtown Columbia, South Carolina. A small library is available on site and students have access to the full holdings of Erskine s McCain Library through Inter-Library Loan (ILL) and other services. ERSKINE VIRTUAL CAMPUS (EVC) Students may complete the MATS degree as well as take courses toward most of the Seminary s other degree programs online, through the Erskine Virtual Campus. Courses follow the same academic calendar as on-campus courses. Admission requirements and registration procedures are the same as for students on campus. Students should note the following limitations on distance education courses: Students pursuing degrees other than the online MATS must complete at least one year of study in classes in either Due West or Columbia. International students must note that the USA Patriot Act stipulates that No more than the equivalent of one class or three credits per session, term, semester or trimester may be counted toward the full course of study requirement if the class is taken online or through distance education and does not require the student s physical attendance. For more information, please contact the Admissions and Financial Aid offices. For more information about Erskine s Virtual Campus, visit the EVC section of the Seminary s website. Students may also contact the EVC s Director, Mr. Nathan Turner (nturner@erskine.edu or ). EXTENSION SITES Students may take courses toward the MDiv, MAPM, and MATS degrees at any the Seminary s extension sites. Erskine currently offers courses in Augusta, Georgia, and in Charleston, and Greenville, South Carolina. Most courses meet for several day-long sessions on Saturdays (every three to four weeks), although some meet once a week throughout the semester or term. ACCREDITATION SOUTHERN ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS (SACS) As a part of Erskine College, Erskine Theological Seminary is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master s, and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia or call for questions about the accreditation of Erskine College.

12 Admissions 8 ASSOCIATION OF THEOLOGICAL SCHOOLS (ATS) Erskine Theological Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, and the following degree programs are approved: MDiv, MA (Theological Studies), MA in Practical Ministry, ThM., and DMin. The following extension sites are approved as specified: Columbia, SC Approved Degrees: MDiv, MA (Theological Studies), MA in Practical Ministry, DMin Erskine is approved for a Comprehensive Distance Education Program. The Commission contact information is: The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, 10 Summit Park Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15275, Telephone , Fax , STATE AUTHORIZATION The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education has recognized the degree-granting authority of Erskine College, of which the Seminary is a part ( The Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission (GNPEC) has authorized Erskine Theological Seminary to offer instruction in Christian Education, Divinity, Ministry, Practical Ministry, Theological Studies, and Theology. Questions related to GNPEC s authorization may be directed to: Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission, 2082 East Exchange Place, Suite 220, Tucker, GA ; ; (FAX); RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS The Seminary also participates in the Evangelical Seminary President s Council, the Evangelical Seminary Deans Council, the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education, and the Society for the Advancement of Continuing Education in Ministry. Erskine participates in PASCAL (Partnership among South Carolina Academic Libraries), which provides students access to the resources of over 50 academic libraries throughout the state. Through PASCAL and the Seminary s library, students have access to a wide variety of electronic journal databases including Academic Search Complete, ATLA, ERIC, and JSTOR, New Testament Abstracts, and Old Testament Abstracts ( The Seminary maintains cooperative agreements with the Atlanta Theological Association (ATA, including Candler School of Theology, Columbia Theological Seminary, Interdenominational Theological Center, Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, and McAfee School of Theology) and the Carolina Theological Consortium (CTC, including Columbia International University, Gordon- Conwell Theological Seminary-Charlotte, and Reformed Theological Seminary-Charlotte). Students have cross-registration and library privileges at all of these institutions. Erskine Theological Seminary and L Institut Biblique Lumiere (the Bible Institute of Light), located in Les Cayes, Haiti, have established a reciprocal relationship as sister seminaries for the mutual

13 Admissions 9 benefit of both institutions. The agreement includes the possibility of occasional faculty exchanges and other cooperative activities. ADMISSIONS APPLYING TO ERSKINE Undergraduates who anticipate enrolling in seminary are encouraged to pursue a well-rounded course of study with a broad foundation in the liberal arts, including English, history, philosophy, Bible and religion, and the social sciences. Graduates with degrees in other fields, however, may still pursue a theological education. In order to be admitted to Erskine Seminary, students must normally possess a bachelor s degree from an accredited college or university; students applying to the ThM or DMin programs must also possess an appropriate graduate degree. Students must also demonstrate the academic ability needed to succeed in graduate education as well as the personal and spiritual qualities appropriate to their desired program of study. Students whose degrees are from unaccredited institutions, or whose previous academic work does not meet Erskine s standards, may be admitted on probation. So that the Seminary will have sufficient time to evaluate application materials, students are encouraged to apply by August 1 for enrollment in the fall semester, December 1 for the January term, January 1 for the spring semester, and May 1 for the summer term. MASTER S PROGRAMS Students applying to the Seminary s master s-degree programs (MDiv, MAPM, MATS) must submit the following: 1. A completed application form 2. A $35 nonrefundable application fee 3. Official transcripts from all schools which have awarded them a degree. These must show a bachelor s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 grade point average. (Students with a lower GPA may be considered for admission on probation.) 4. Two letters of recommendation from persons who know them well and can address their Christian character, commitment, and potential for effective ministry (such as a pastor, mentor, or colleague in ministry) and their aptitude for advanced academic work (such as a former teacher). (The Seminary reserves the right to request additional recommendations in special circumstances.) 5. A two-page essay stating why they would like to pursue a seminary education. ADVANCED PROGRAMS 1. A completed application form 2. A $35 nonrefundable application fee 3. Official transcripts from all schools which have awarded them a degree. These must show appropriate graduate degrees from accredited institutions with a 3.0 graduate grade point

14 Admissions 10 average. ThM applicants must possess an MDiv, MATS, MAR, or equivalent; DMin students must have an MDiv or equivalent. DMin applicants with a GPA between 2.75 and 2.99 may be considered for admission on probation; those with a GPA below 2.75 may be considered on a case-by-case basis. 4. Two letters of recommendation from persons who know them well and can address their Christian character, commitment, and potential for effective ministry (such as a pastor, mentor, or colleague in ministry) and their aptitude for advanced academic work (such as a former teacher). (The Seminary reserves the right to request additional recommendations in special circumstances.) 5. A 600-word statement explaining how the program will contribute to their competence in academic work, ministry, or service to the Church. 6. (DMin applicants only) A brief resume of their experience in ministry. Applicants must ordinarily have at least three years of full-time ministry experience following completion of their MDiv. Students with less than three years of post-mdiv experience must provide additional information about ministry experience and qualifications for advanced ministerial studies. 7. An interview may be deemed necessary to establish the student s level of interest, aptitude, and personal qualities necessary to engage in advanced study. DIPLOMA AND CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS Students who lack an undergraduate degree may apply for admission to one of the certificate or diploma programs that parallel Erskine s degree programs: Diploma in Theology (MDiv), Certificate in Practical Ministry (MAPM), and Certificate in Theological Studies (MATS). Applicants must complete the admission requirements as outlined above for master s degree programs. Students may convert a completed Certificate or Diploma to a master s degree if they subsequently acquire an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by submitting an official transcript documenting the completed undergraduate degree program and conferral date, along with the applicable fee. CONTINUING EDUCATION Students wishing to enroll for Continuing Education credit must complete a Non-Credit Student Application and submit a $35 non-refundable application fee. Courses taken for continuing education do not receive any academic credit, and cannot be converted to academic credit or applied toward a degree program at any time in the future. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Admission Requirement for the online MATS are the same as other master s degree programs. The requirements for admission into the seminary s degree programs are evaluated by the Director of Admission and the Graduate Committee to ensure that only students capable of annually doing graduate-level work are admitted and that the programs are consistent with the Seminary s mission of preparing people to serve in the Christian church.

15 Admissions 11 AUDITORS Students wishing to audit courses for personal enrichment must complete a Non-Credit Student Application and submit a $35 non-refundable application fee. It is not possible to change from credit to audit after the drop/add deadline for the semester or term. ERSKINE SEMINARY GRADUATES Graduates of Erskine Theological Seminary who wish to pursue a second degree must normally complete a new application. Graduates who completed their studies within the past year need only submit a written request to the Admissions Office. RETURNING STUDENTS Master s students who have not been enrolled for more than a year are considered to have withdrawn from the Seminary. Those wishing to reenroll must submit a letter to the Admissions Office explaining the reasons for their absence, requesting readmission, and outlining their plans for completing the degree. Advanced students (ThM and DMin) who have not remained continuously enrolled will be suspended. Those who wish to return must send a written request to the Post-Graduate Committee through the appropriate program director. Fees for reapplication and readmission will be assessed. The Seminary reserves the right to require a full application from those seeking readmission after a substantial length of time (or for other reasons). Students who have been suspended for academic or other reasons and wish to reenroll must follow the instructions they were given at the time of their suspension. SPECIAL (NON-DEGREE) STUDENTS Students who are not seeking a degree but wish to take courses for academic credit may apply as special students by submitting a completed application and the $35 non-refundable application fee. Special students pay all regular tuition and fees. They may not take more than five courses without reapplying and being admitted to a degree program. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Erskine Theological Seminary follows the guidelines and regulations set forth by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for all international students applying to the institution. To be eligible to enter the United States on an F-1 visa or F-1 student status, students must be qualified to pursue a full course of study on a full-time basis at an academic institution. When applying for an F-1 visa, applicants must prove to a U.S. consular official that they wish to enter the United States temporarily and solely for the purpose of study and that they have a permanent residence in a foreign country and have no intention of abandoning that country.

16 Admissions 12 Erskine Theological Seminary is allowed to issue a Form I-20A-B to a foreign applicant only after the following conditions have been met: 1. The school has received all required application materials as outlined above (e.g., application, application fee, transcripts, references, essay, etc.). 2. The school has received proof of the applicant s financial responsibility and other supporting documents, and has reviewed and evaluated them at the school s location in the United States. 3. The school has received their TOEFL score of at least 550 (out of 677) for paper-based examination, 213 for computer-based examination, or 80 (out of 120) for internet-based examination (only if their native language is not English). 4. The school has determined that the applicant s qualifications meet all standards for admission and that the applicant has adequate English skills for the intended course of study. 5. The school official responsible for admission has accepted the applicant for enrollment in a full course of study. Erskine Theological Seminary must receive reliable documentation indicating that the applicant has financial resources adequate to meet expenses at this institution. These funds may come from any dependable source, including scholarships, fellowships, sponsoring agencies, or family. The documentation must demonstrate that the applicant has adequate funds on hand for at least the first year of study and that, barring unforeseen circumstances, funding will be available from the same or equally dependable sources for subsequent years. Tuition, fees, room, and board for the first full year must be paid prior to enrollment. Applicants are also responsible for their own transportation and medical expenses. Applicants should be aware that they may be required to present documentary evidence of financial support at the time they apply for a visa and again to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when they arrive in the United States. Once applicants have been admitted to the United States as an F-1 student, they must meet certain obligations in order to maintain their status. Under current regulations, they must: 1. Have a passport that is kept valid at all times, unless exempt from the passport requirement. 2. Attend the school they were authorized to attend. 3. Continue to carry a full course of study. 4. Leave the United States by the anticipated completion date shown on Form I-20, or, by that date, apply to the school for a program extension. 5. Apply to the school to continue from one educational level to another at the same school. 6. Limit employment, both on-campus and off, to a total of 20 hours per week while school is in session. 7. Refrain from off-campus employment without authorization. Students must be enrolled in F-1 status for one full academic year before they may be authorized by USCIS to work off-campus based on unforeseen severe economic hardship. 8. Report a change of residence to USCIS within 10 days of the change.

17 Admissions 13 In addition, Erskine Seminary requires that students first consult Erskine s SEVIS Designated School Official (DSO) when requesting verification of enrollment, transcripts, or other school documentation that they may request or need during their enrollment as an Erskine student. The DSO will then submit a request, or authorize them to submit their request, to the respective Seminary office from which they need or desire the documentation. This policy is to ensure that the DSO is informed of any plans or changes that could potentially affect students visa status. International students who wish to enroll in online courses must be aware that the USA Patriot Act places certain restrictions on the use of distance education courses to complete degree requirements. Federal regulation 8 C.F.R (f)(6)(i)(G) states: For F-1 students enrolled in classes for credit or classroom hours, no more than the equivalent of one class or three credits per session, term, semester, trimester, or quarter may be counted toward the full course of study requirement if the class is taken on-line or through distance education and does not require the student s physical attendance for classes, examination or other purposes integral to completion of the class. An on-line or distance education course is a course that is offered principally through the use of television, audio, or computer transmission including open broadcast, closed circuit, cable, microwave, or satellite, audio conferencing, or computer conferencing. If the F-1 student s course of study is in a language study program, no on-line or distance education classes may be considered to count toward a student s full course of study requirement. TRANSFER CREDIT Students wishing to receive transfer credit for courses taken from other institutions must present official transcripts for evaluation. Courses may be considered for transfer credit only if they come from appropriately accredited institutions, were completed ten or fewer years ago, and are directly relevant to students course of study. In addition, courses must be of a comparable level (e.g., undergraduate courses may not be transferred into master s programs, only courses designed specifically for advanced students may be applied to ThM and DMin degrees.) No transfer credit will be given for prior experiential or portfolio-based learning, or for denominational training programs for which no academic credit was earned. Transferred courses may not be used to satisfy residency requirements. Applicants may request an initial, unofficial evaluation of the transcript during the admissions process, but the final, official evaluation of the transcript will not be completed until students have been admitted and enrolled; in some cases, final evaluation will be completed only after completion of the student s first semester or term of study at Erskine. Students with relevant undergraduate majors, such as biblical studies, theology, or pastoral studies, may request transcript evaluation for Advanced Standing Without Credit (certain basic courses are waived in lieu of more advanced work) or Advanced Standing With Credit in which students may receive credit for up to 25% of an academic program. Oral or written proficiency exams may be required for Advanced Standing With Credit. Students pursing the MATS degree may be able to

18 Admissions 14 complete the degree in one year of full-time academic study if they have prior extensive undergraduate studies in religion and/or other appropriate foundational areas. Erskine Seminary follows a semester schedule. Courses completed on a quarter system are divided by 1.5 to determine semester hour equivalents (e.g., three quarter hours equal two semester hours). See the program requirements for each degree program for limitations on transfer credit and other details.

19 DEGREE PROGRAMS MASTER OF DIVINITY (MDIV) The MDiv is the professional degree that traditionally prepares graduates to serve in ordained ministry and is required by many denominations. The MDiv provides a balanced curriculum with courses in biblical studies, theology and church history, and the practice of ministry. Students may also choose to pursue an MDiv with a special Chaplain Ministries Emphasis, which includes specialized coursework to prepare for a variety of chaplaincy ministries. MASTER OF ARTS IN PRACTICAL MINISTRY (MAPM) The MAPM prepares graduates for specialized roles in churches or other ministries. Students ordained in denominations that do not require the MDiv often use the MAPM to enhance their knowledge and ministry skills. The curriculum focuses on courses in the practice of ministry. MASTER OF ARTS IN THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (MATS) The MATS deepens graduates understanding of the Bible, theology, and church history. Students pursue the MATS for personal enrichment, to enhance their ministries as leaders and teachers in their churches, or to prepare for further study. MASTER OF THEOLOGY (THM) The ThM provides MDiv and MATS graduates the opportunity to pursue research in biblical and theological studies that will enhance their ministries and/or provide a foundation for PhD studies. DOCTOR OF MINISTRY (DMIN) The DMin provides pastors and other ministry leaders the opportunity for advanced theological reflection on the work of ministry and to sharpen ministry skills. The MDiv (or its educational equivalent) and experience in ministry are required. CERTIFICATE AND DIPLOMA PROGRAMS Students who lack an undergraduate degree may earn a diploma or certificate by completing one of the corresponding master s degree curricula (MDiv, MAPM, MATS) Erskine Theological Seminary Catalog

20 Degree Programs 16 MASTER OF DIVINITY (MDIV) The MDiv is the professional degree that traditionally prepares graduates to serve in ordained ministry and is required by many denominations for ordination. The MDiv provides a balanced curriculum with courses in biblical studies, theology and church history, and the practice of ministry. The MDiv provides the broadest possible basis for future ministry and further study (e.g., ThM, PhD); the MDiv is ordinarily required for admission to the DMin degree. EDUCATIONAL GOALS The Seminary seeks to develop the following in students in this degree program: 1. Concepts. Graduates will interpret the Bible and draw on the Church s theological and historical heritage as they apply the Bible s message to faith, life, and ministry in contemporary contexts. a. Bible. Graduates will interpret and apply the Bible in the light of its linguistic, literary, historical, and theological setting. b. Heritage. Graduates will utilize the Church s theological and historical heritage as they apply the Bible s message. c. Context. Graduates will identify, evaluate, and critically engage contemporary ministry contexts with the Bible s message. 2. Competence. Graduates will serve the Church effectively using skills required for their particular callings, especially communication, caring for others, leadership, and administration. a. Communication. Graduates will preach, teach, speak, and write clearly and effectively. b. Care. Graduates will work well and respectfully with others and will provide compassionate and effective pastoral care and counsel. c. Leadership. Graduates will attract, influence, and guide followers in worship, discipleship, and service. d. Administration. Graduates will plan, manage, evaluate, and improve their own work and that of their organization. 3. Calling. Graduates will identify, develop, and use their abilities to advance the Church s mission to worship and serve Jesus Christ. 4. Character. Graduates will serve the Church with evident Christian character and integrity in their personal and professional lives. PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Admission Applicants must have completed a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with an acceptable grade point average. (See Admissions for details.) Students who lack an undergraduate degree may be awarded the Diploma in Theology by completing the same curriculum. Graduation Students must complete semester hours of coursework as outlined below with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to remain in good standing

21 Degree Programs 17 and maintain eligibility for financial aid. The program may be completed in as little as three years of full-time study. Students must normally complete the program within nine years. Transfer and Residence Students must complete at least 30 semester hours in residence at either the Due West or Columbia campuses. Additional hours may be taken at any of Erskine s extension sites or online. Master s students may register for only one directed or independent study for every 30 hours of coursework completed. Students may transfer up to one-half of the credits required for their degree, but no more than half of the credits may have been previously applied to another graduate degree; only courses with grades of C (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) or higher may be transferred. Transferred and cross-registration courses may not be used to satisfy residency requirements. Dual Master s Degrees Students who wish to combine the MDiv with an Erskine MATS degree must complete the 90 hours required for the MDiv, plus half of the hours for the MATS (i.e., a total of 114 hours) and must take all courses required for both degrees. Both degrees will ordinarily be conferred at the same time, after the requirements for both have been met. CURRICULUM (90 CREDIT HOURS) Bible Department (24 hours) BI 501 Bible Survey or Bible Elective BI 502 Principles of Exegesis (required of first-year students) OT 501 Old Testament I OT 502 Old Testament II NT 601 New Testament I NT 602 New Testament II OT exegesis elective NT exegesis elective BI 501 Bible Survey is required of first-year students who have not passed the Bible Challenge Exam. The Seminary recommends that students complete 6-9 hours of Greek and/or Hebrew. Students must have successfully completed BI 502 in order to earn exegesis credit for Bible electives and normally should have completed OT and NT survey courses. Theology Department (24 hours) CH 501 Early and Medieval Church History CH 502 Reformation and Modern Church History ST 601 Systematic Theology I ST 602 Systematic Theology II ST 603 Systematic Theology III Ethics Elective Missions/Contextualization Elective (any MS course, or PM742/PM745)

22 Degree Programs 18 Theology/Church History elective or Denominational History and/or Doctrine course Ministry Department (24 hours) PM 502 Christian Vocation and Transformation CE 505 Christian Education PM 507 Evangelism WP 550 Basic Preaching WP 551 Christian Worship PM 604 Christian Leadership and Church Administration PM 608 Pastoral Care and Counseling PM 705 Supervised Ministry MASTER OF DIVINITY (CHAPLAIN MINISTRIES) CURRICULUM (84 CREDIT HOURS) Bible Department (24 hours) BI 501 Bible Survey or Bible Elective BI 502 Principles of Exegesis (required of first-year students) OT 501 Old Testament I OT 502 Old Testament II NT 601 New Testament I NT 602 New Testament II OT exegesis elective NT exegesis elective BI 501 Bible Survey is required of first-year students who have not passed the Bible Challenge Exam. The Seminary recommends that students complete 6-9 hours of Greek and/or Hebrew. Students must have successfully completed BI 502 in order to earn exegesis credit for Bible electives and normally should have completed OT and NT survey courses. Theology Department (24 hours) CH 501 Early and Medieval Church History CH 502 Reformation and Modern Church History ST 601 Systematic Theology I ST 602 Systematic Theology II ST 603 Systematic Theology III ST 780 Apologetics and World Religions Ethics Elective Missions/Contextualization Elective (any MS course, or PM742/PM745) Theology/Church History elective or Denominational History and/or Doctrine course

23 Degree Programs 19 Ministry Department (30 hours) CE 505 Christian Education PM 507 Evangelism WP 550 Basic Preaching WP 551 Christian Worship PM 604 Christian Leadership and Church Administration PM 608 Pastoral Care and Counseling PM 705 Supervised Ministry PM 610 Introduction to Chaplaincy Clinical Pastoral Education I Clinical Pastoral Education II Electives (6 hours) Denominational Requirements Erskine Seminary educates students from a variety of denominations. Students must consult with church officials to become familiar with their denomination s requirements for ordination and should consult with the MDiv program director to determine the best way to meet these requirements. Students may pursue up to six hours of additional work beyond that required for their degree in order to satisfy denominational requirements or personal interests. Students seeking ordination in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, Presbyterian Church in America, Evangelical Presbyterian Church, and Orthodox Presbyterian Church should take nine hours each of biblical Greek and Hebrew, ST 715 Westminster Standards, and PS 501 Presbyterian Church History and Polity/EP 501 Evangelical Presbyterian Church History and Polity. Students seeking ordination in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) should take PC 501 Polity of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and PC 502 Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) History and Confessions. Students seeking ordination in the African Methodist Episcopal Church are encouraged to take ME 501 AME History and Polity, ME 502 AME Doctrine, and ME 503 Preaching in the African American Church. MASTER OF ARTS IN PRACTICAL MINISTRY (MAPM) The MAPM prepares graduates for specialized roles in churches or other ministries. Students ordained in denominations that do not require the MDiv often use the MAPM to enhance their knowledge and ministry skills. The curriculum focuses on courses in the practice of ministry. EDUCATIONAL GOALS The Seminary seeks to develop students in this degree program in the following ways: 1) Concepts. Graduates will interpret the Bible and draw on the Church s theological and historical heritage as they apply the Bible s message to faith, life, and ministry in contemporary contexts.

24 Degree Programs 20 a) Bible. Graduates will interpret and apply the Bible in the light of its literary, historical, and theological setting. b) Heritage. Graduates will identify relevant resources from the Church s theological and historical heritage as they apply the Bible s message. c) Context. Graduates will identify, evaluate, and critically engage contemporary ministry contexts with the Bible s message. 2) Competence. Graduates will serve the Church effectively using skills required for their particular callings, especially communication, caring for others, leadership, and administration. a) Communication. Graduates will speak and write clearly and effectively. b) Care. Graduates will work well and respectfully with others and will (if applicable to the student s area of concentration) provide compassionate and effective pastoral care and counsel. c) Leadership. Graduates will attract, influence, and guide followers in their ministries. d) Administration. Graduates will plan, manage, evaluate, and improve their own work and that of their organization. 3) Calling. Graduates will identify, develop, and use their abilities to advance the Church s mission to worship and serve Jesus Christ. 4) Character. Graduates will serve the Church with evident Christian character and integrity in their personal and professional lives. PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Admission Applicants must have completed a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with an acceptable grade point average. (See Admissions for details.) Students who lack an undergraduate degree may be awarded the Certificate in Practical Ministry by completing the same curriculum. Graduation Students must complete 48 semester hours of coursework as outlined below with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to remain in good standing and maintain eligibility for financial aid. The program may be completed in as little as two years of fulltime study. Students must normally complete the program within six years. Transfer and Residence Students must complete at least 24 semester hours in residence at either the Due West or Columbia campuses. Additional hours may be taken at any of Erskine s extension sites or online. Master s students may register for only one directed or independent study for every 30 hours of coursework completed. Students may transfer up to one-half of the credits required for their degree, but no more than half of the credits may have been previously applied to another graduate degree; only courses with grades of C (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) or higher may be transferred. Transferred and cross-registration courses may not be used to satisfy residency requirements. Students with relevant undergraduate degree